How to Apply for Name Correction Gazette Notification Online

What is a Gazette Notification for Name Change?

A Gazette for Name Change is an official public record issued by the Department of Publication, Government of India. This document is published weekly and serves as a formal announcement to the public and the government regarding your new identity. Unlike a simple affidavit, a Gazette Notification for Name Change is recognized globally and is mandatory for updating Class A documents like the Indian Passport.

In India, the Central Gazette is published by the Controller of Publications based in Civil Lines, Delhi. Once your name is published in this document, it becomes a permanent record in the government archives, providing you with a lifelong legal shield against identity disputes.

The Complete Gazette for Name Change Process

The Name Change Process in India is structured into three primary phases. Each phase must be completed with care to ensure the Department of Publication accepts your application.

1. The Name Change Affidavit

The first step is to draft a Legal Name Change affidavit. This is a sworn statement on a non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 to ₹100, depending on your state).

• Details Required: Old name, new name, full address, and the reason for change.

• Attestation: The affidavit must be signed by the applicant and notarized by a Notary Public or a First-Class Magistrate.

2. Newspaper Advertisement

After the affidavit is ready, you must announce your name change to the public. As of 2026, the requirement has been simplified: one newspaper advertisement is now sufficient for the gazette notification for name change.

• Placement: You should publish this in a leading daily newspaper (English or regional) circulated in your area.

• Content: The ad must clearly state your old name, new name, father’s/husband’s name, and the date/details of your notarized affidavit.

3. Submission of Documents for Gazette Notification

The final phase involves preparing a physical file and submitting it to the Department of Publication. This includes a digital version of your request in a CD and the necessary government fees paid via the Bharat Kosh portal.

Fees and Timeline for Name Change in India

Understanding the costs and time involved helps in planning your Gazette Name Change effectively.

• Government Fees:

  • Adults (General): ₹1,100

  • Minors: ₹1,700

  • NRIs: ₹7,500 – ₹9,000 (depending on the country of residence)

• Additional Costs: You should budget an extra ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 for the Gazette for Name Change Process to cover stamp paper, notary charges, and newspaper advertisement fees.

• Timeline: Once the file is submitted to the Delhi office, it typically takes 30 to 45 working days for the notification to appear in the e-Gazette.

Why is a Gazette Name Change Mandatory?

While some people believe an affidavit is enough, a Gazette Notification for Name Change is often required for:

1. Passport Services: The Passport office will not accept name changes without a Central Gazette.

2. Banking: For updating the name on existing accounts or fixed deposits.

3. Aadhaar Update: Especially if you have reached the limit of name corrections on the UIDAI portal.

4. Government Employees: It is mandatory for updating service books and pension records.

If you are a resident of the capital, you might specifically need a Gazette Name Change to align with local administrative requirements for property or education records.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it mandatory to change your name in the Gazette?

Yes, if you want to update your name on major documents like a Passport or if you are a government employee. For private use, an affidavit might suffice, but for legal and government recognition, the Gazette is essential.

2. What is the difference between a State Gazette and a Central Gazette?

A State Gazette is valid within that specific state, whereas the Central Gazette Notification for Name Change is valid across all of India and for international travel (Passports). It is always recommended to go for the Central Gazette.

3. Can I apply for a Gazette notification online?

In 2026, you can pay the fees and track the status online via the Vakil India or official government portals. However, the physical file containing the original affidavit and newspaper clipping must still be sent to the Department of Publication in Delhi.

4. Why was my Gazette application rejected?

Common reasons include a mismatch between the affidavit and the newspaper ad, using old photographs, or an incorrectly formatted CD. Ensuring every detail matches your ID proof is crucial.

5. How can I download my Gazette copy?

Once published, you do not receive a physical certificate. You must visit the egazette.gov.in website, search for your name in Part IV, and download the PDF. This digital copy is legally valid when printed.

Conclusion: Take the Legal Route with Confidence

The journey to a new identity through a Gazette Notification for Name Change ensures that you never face identity-related legal hurdles in the future. While the Name Change in India involves several layers of paperwork, following the right steps and maintaining a clear document trail is the key to success.